What does a gynaecologist do at a consultation?

Your gynaecologist will listen to your story (history). Inevitably, this will require discussion of rather personal details including periods and contraception. A general and pelvic examination are usually required and some patients may understandably find this embarrassing. A male gynaecologist should have a nurse present to act as chaperone.

Your gynaecologist will summarise the clinical and investigation findings and arrange any further tests as appropriate.

You will require explanations and you should, as far as possible, be involved in choosing from the treatment options. Finally, your gynaecologist must complete all written documents, write to your general practitioner and often provide a prescription or ensure completion of arrangements for surgery.

Invariably doctors have organised their clinics to ensure optimum utilisation of clinic time for the benefit of all their patients. In busy hospital clinics, the time allocated for each patient may be less than fifteen minutes. Although many patients, as well as their doctors, would wish for more time, additional time spent with them results in delays and less time for others. The doctor's specialist skill lies in diagnosis and the application of medical and surgical treatments. We doctors are more than aware of the emotional turmoil that our patients may be experiencing but rarely is there time for us to explore these areas in the detail we would wish. When it is appropriate, we may be able to direct patients to allied professionals such as counsellors or nurse specialists who can provide invaluable support.

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